Tramps!, written and directed by Kevin Hegge, offers a captivating retrospective on the New Romantic movement that emerged from the vibrant London nightlife of the late 1970s.

The documentary skillfully weaves together timepiece footage, news headlines, and contemporary interviews, providing an immersive and nostalgic experience for curious viewers, whilst shining a rare light on queer voices of the time.

At a time when young men and women were encouraged to become either housewives or ‘fodder for the factories’, disillusioned young creatives rejected the social norms and flocked to a still recovering post-war Central London. 

Living in squats, an array of larger than life outsiders (aka. the Blitz Kids) inspire each other as ‘peacock punk’ soon gathers more and more media attention and the New Romantic movement is born.

The film expertly captures the essence of the era when the question “Are you in a band?” transformed into “Oh, did you make that?” as self-expression took on a new and flamboyant creative flair.

As much a party as a way of life, the movement transformed London’s underground music and art scene. Imagine Boy George dancing in a room of equally enticing characters and you’ve got the gist.

The film’s interview and footage style seamlessly blend entertainment with enlightenment. Through the candid accounts of pioneers like Judy Blame, Les Child, and Scarlett Cannon, Tramps! paints a vivid picture of a close-knit family of trailblazers who paved the way for a cultural revolution.

A rare light into queer club culture in 80s Britain

Gradually, the New Romantic way of life became more and more hedonistic, and so the AIDs crisis took its toll on the movement as a generation of creatives lost their lives. Tramps! is told by a large number of queer voices that have been left unheard over the years so the documentary is essential queer viewing.

In conclusion, Tramps! Is a recollection of the power of self-expression and the enduring legacy of the New Romantic movement. It invites viewers to immerse themselves in the glamour, rebellion, and creativity that defined an era and celebrates the individuals who dared to be different.